By Tony McVeigh
http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/wuky/local-wuky-955985.mp3
Frankfort, KY – There's now talk in Frankfort of a special session on Kentucky's Medicaid budget. Kentucky Public Radio's Tony McVeigh says the suggestion is coming from the man who presides over the state Senate.
Senate President David Williams says he's willing to negotiate with the House on Medicaid, but if the talks don't go anywhere, lawmakers may as well adjourn and go home. Then, if an agreement is reached later, it could be approved in a special session. "If we came back on a Monday for a special session, we would use five days. That would save 13 days at about $68,000 a day."
But that idea does not sit well with House Speaker Greg Stumbo. "If one believes you can accomplish in a special session what needs to be accomplished, why don't you just do it now."
Balancing the Medicaid budget remains the last major issue still be resolved in the 2011 session, which is down to its last three days.